Dedication. It's the word that best describes Michael McVeigh's accomplishments as a Capitol College student scholar.

A graduate of the Class of 2005, McVeigh admits that he's more of a natural-born artist than a mathematician. But he's also a tireless worker -- the key to his success. 

"I'm a really hard worker, and to me, that's made the difference. The professors are easily reachable and constantly push you beyond your comfort zone," says McVeigh, who received a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. "I've had several fantastic professors who have really made the difference and inspired me to do better.  Capitol has been a good fit for me."

McVeigh realized the rewards for diligent effort after he struggled through his first college algebra course. That was years ago at a community college, when the idea of an engineering career was never considered. But he desperately wanted to successfully complete the course, and so he did everything he could. He did more than pass – he earned an A.

That was the turning point for him, McVeigh says, and so he pushed forward, earning an associate's degree in electrical engineering technology and graduating with a 4.0 grade point average.

“It helped me realize that if I want something bad enough,  I can do it. And if I can do it, and I'm good at it, well, I can apply it to a career. I knew what I wanted next, and I was going to do whatever it takes. I was committed to getting a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering at all costs. My resolve was absolute.”

The recipient of several scholarships, McVeigh was recognized by his professors and the staff for his success. McVeigh received the prestigious Avrum Gudelsky Memorial Award, the highest award granted by the college, which  provides nearly full tuition of one student's senior year. During the summer breaks, he was working at Tobyhanna Army Depot, a chance to add work experience to his resume and earn enough money for school-year expenses.

McVeigh says he had never taken a moment for granted at Capitol College. He exerted 100 percent effort into his work, hoping at the end of each day his best is good enough. To the Capitol College community, he had shown that his best was more than good enough – it had lead to the start of a promising and successful career.